Frequently Asked Questions

1. ABOUT CYPRUS

1.1 Q: Why should I organize a conference in Cyprus?

A: Cyprus combines a remarkable array of services, sights and attractions into such a small space: great infrastructure, excellent venues and hotels, museums and archaeological sites, throbbing beach resorts, medieval fortresses, age-old temples and Cool Mountains. Even though Cyprus is a European Union member, its unique location between three continents, combined with the very high standard of living and excellent climate (around 340 days of sunshine every year), make Cyprus one of the most attractive meeting places of the world.

1.2 Q: Is Cyprus now a full member of the European Union?

A: The Republic of Cyprus has been an official member state of the EU since May 1st 2004.

1.3 Q: What is the official language in Cyprus?

A: The official language is Greek. However, English is the second language and is understood and spoken by almost everybody. In addition, many people speak fluently French, German, Russian, Spanish, and many other languages.

1.4 Q: What is the official currency in Cyprus?

A: The currency of the Republic is the Euro (€). People may also exchange other currencies for the Euro at any bank or at their hotel (may be a higher rate). The design of the Cypriot euro coins:

1 cent, 2 cent and 5 cent: The Mouflon, the most characteristic species of fauna in Cyprus, representing the island’s nature and wildlife.

10 cent, 20 cent and 50 cent: The Kyrenia ship of 4th Century B.C., representing Cyprus’s history and its character as an island as well as its importance in trade.

1 and 2 Euro: The Idol of Pomos, a cross-shaped idol dating back to the Cypriot chalcolithic period (3000 B.C.), found in Pomos, a village in the district of Paphos. It is a characteristic example of prehistoric art in Cyprus, representing the island’s antiquity, culture and civilization.

1.5 Q: What is the political situation in Cyprus?

A: Cyprus gained EU membership in 2004; however this only applies in practice to the Greek Cypriot community.
In 1974 Cyprus was divided de facto when the Turkish army occupied the northern third of the island. The political situation in the occupied area of Cyprus, which is not under the effective control of the Government of the Republic of Cyprus, is NOT a recognized state, it is dominated by the presence of the Turkish occupation forces, the Turkish mainland settlers and the overwhelming influence of Turkey.

1.6 Q: What voltage is used in Cyprus?

A: The voltage on the island is 240V. Socket outlets are flat 3 pin-type (English standard). Adaptors are available at most convenience stores and in most cases you may be able to borrow one at a charge from your hotel reception.

2. TRAVELLING TO/WITHIN CYPRUS

2.1 Q: How many airports are there in Cyprus?

A: There are two brand new airports on the island. The main airport is Larnaca International Airport (LCA) with many connections to the world, and the second one is the Paphos International Airport (PFO).

2.2 Q: Which airlines fly to Cyprus?

A: There are many airlines flying to Cyprus, including many of the major ones (British Airways, Austrian Airlines, Lufthansa, KLM, Emirates, Edihat, Olympic, Aegean, Easyjet, RyanAir etc). Please refer to the official Cyprus airports website www.cyprusairports.com.cy for a complete list of all airlines flying into Cyprus and their latest schedules.

2.3 Q: Do I need a visa in order to visit Cyprus?

A: Please note that Cyprus is a member of the European Union. Residents of non-EU countries should hold valid Schengen visas to stay in the Republic of Cyprus. For more information, please visit the “Travel Section” of the conference website, or the official website of the Cyprus Ministry of Foreign Affairs, www.mfa.gov.cy.

2.4 Q: Can I reach Cyprus through Ercan Airport?

A: Ercan airport is located in the occupied North and is not a recognized port of entry into the Republic of Cyprus. Thus, landing there might cause problems for you when you try to cross the Green Line (De Facto Border). Furthermore, it should be mentioned that as the occupied North is not a recognized country, this might pose insurance problems in case of an accident while you visit Cyprus. It is recommended to double-check with the Cyprus Ministry of Foreign Affairs, www.mfa.gov.cy, before travelling.

2.5 Q: Where can I get tourist information when in Cyprus?

A: Official Tourist Information offices of Cyprus Tourist Organization are located in central locations in the centre of each city. The officers will provide you with all the necessary information on tourist attractions, transportation as well as hardcopy maps and brochures. Please find below CTO offices per city:

3. EASYCONFERENCES REGISTRATION SYSTEM (CRS)

3.1 Q: How do I benefit from CRS?

A: The CRS is a one-stop-shop system where users only need to sign up once the very first time they use it; this process is very fast and completely free. After this step, signed up users can register for any number of different conferences that use the system. The software offers all conference participants a flexible, quick and easy-to-use registration process. Furthermore, the organizers will be provided with a wide range of useful information concerning the conference.

3.2 Q: How long does the registration process take?

A: The registration process is organized in easy to follow sections so that participants can register in minutes just by following the steps provided. It is also possible to register and book different services at different time frames.

3.3 Q: Do I have to complete the Registration process at a single visit on EasyConferences System?

A: No you do not. The registration process is completely flexible and allows participants to login and select different services at different times. Furthermore, it is possible for participants to make as many changes as possible, (for instance one may want to change their registration type, change dates for hotel booking, change hotel, add flight details, etc). However, it is highly recommended that you reserve accommodation early enough in order to be able to secure a room at the hotel of your preference.

3.4 Q: Why can I not login into my EasyConferences account?

A: If this is your first try to login, make sure that you have activated your account by clicking the activation link sent to your email account – please check Junk or Spam emails if the activation link is not in your Inbox.If you are already a registered user, please try to login with the username and password you initially used to created your EasyConferences account; make sure you have entered your full email address as your username and note that the password is case sensitive. Please check your spelling in your username and password.If you forgot your password, click on “forgot your password” link. You will receive a reset key in your email account. Quote this key in order to set your new password.If you cannot recall your username, please contact us at: support@easyconferences.org.

3.5 Q: Can I have an invitation letter for the conference?

A: Invitation letters are issued by the Academic Organisers of the conference, after they check each requesting person’s credentials.

3.6 Q: Can I receive a confirmation for accommodation?

A: A confirmation for accommodation is sometimes required for visa purposes. After participants book and pay for their accommodation through EasyConferences, the confirmation is issued by our office upon request.

3.7 Q: Why can I not view the very end right hand side of the window?

A: In order to view the right hand side of the page, you probably need to Zoom Out your screen. To do so, you need to either:

Hold the “Ctrl” button and at the same time move your mouse wheel downwards to Zoom Out or upwards to Zoom In.

Hold the “Ctrl” button and at the same time press the minus (-) button on your keyboard to Zoom Out or plus (+) button to Zoom In.

Please note that for the normal view of the website, you need to hold the “Ctrl” button and at the same time press the Zero (0) button.

4. CONFERENCE REGISTRATION

4.1 Q: How can I make changes to my registration order?

A: Once you login to EasyConferences, a list of all the conferences you have registered for appears and you can click on the “change” option to the right side of the list. Otherwise, you can click on the conference’s link and then the click on ‘change order’ option at the top right of the “Conference Overview” page to make any changes required.

4.2 Q: Why can I not see my changes on my registration order?

A: This is because you did not click on “Update my registration” at the last step of the registration form. You need to login once again, view/make the changes to your selections and click the “Update my registration” button at the bottom of the page at the last step in order to save your amendments.

4.3 Q: Why can I not use the “Snake Tree” for navigating the registration website? Is it compulsory to fill in all the fields of the registration?

A: Please note that there is no compulsory step in the Easyconferences registration system. However, when you first register, it is required to use the “Next” and “Back” buttons at the bottom of each page to navigate. Once you complete the registration with the navigation buttons you can use the “Snake Tree” to jump to whichever registration step you wish to make changes. This is done so that an important step is not accidentally skipped during the initial registration.

4.4 Q: Can I register a fellow colleague/student/another person from my institution to the conference from my own account?

A: Please note that registering another person through your own EasyConferences account is notpossible. You need to create a different user account on EasyConferences with a different username and password; the reason being is that your fellow colleague will be able to be informed about his/her EasyConferences account status as well as to receive information concerning the conference in his/her own Mailbox. In case you are held responsible for registering other persons also, please contact us so we can advise you accordingly.

4.5 Q: Can I book a social event once I am at the conference?

A: Yes, tickets for all the social events are available for purchase at the onsite Conference Registration Desk; however participants are encouraged to book early as we may run out of space. Also, if you are interested in participating in any of the social events but the registration system is already closed, you can easily send an email to: info@easyconferences.org and a member of our team will advise you accordingly.

4.6 Q: Unfortunately I will not participate at the conference. Do I need to cancel my registration order?

A: In case you will not attend the conference please log in on www.easyconferences.org and at the top right side of the registration order page click on “cancel order” in order to automatically cancel all your selected services. Alternatively, you can simply send an email atinfo@easyconferences.org and we will proceed with the cancellation on your behalf.

4.7 Q: Where can I find the cancellation policy?

A: Once you login to EasyConferences, a list of all the conferences you have registered for appears. At this page, you click on the “change” option to the right side of the list and at the bottom of the new screen you select “Terms and Conditions”. At this section you can find the cancellation policy of our company for each service (registration, accommodation, transfers etc.).

5. ACCOMMODATION

5.1 Q: I am arriving very early in the morning to Cyprus. What is the hotel policy about this?

A: The normal hotel policy in Cyprus is that check-in time starts at 14:00 hrs with a possibility for an early check-in upon hotel availability, which however will not be before 12:00 noon. In case you wish to use your reserved room before 12:00 noon, then you will need to go back to your EasyConferences account and add one more night to your initial reservation. Normal check-out is at 12:00 noon.

5.2 Q: Can I share a hotel room with another participant?

A: Yes, all the participants are able to share a hotel room with another participant. The second participant needs to insert at the top of the Accommodation page during the registration process the “Share Code” given to the first participant automatically through the system. However, it is participants’ responsibility to find the person they will share the room with.

5.3 Q: How can I book a room of 3 persons/families at the accommodation step?

A: In case you need accommodation for 3 or 4 persons (adults or children wishing to share your room), please contact us at info@easyconfrences.org so that we can check availability of connected/family rooms in the allocated hotels and advise you accordingly.

5.4 Q: I want to reserve a half-double room but I do not know my share code. How can I find it?

A: If you are the first person of the two to book the half- double room; then your share code is the one appearing just below the option half-double/triple room. If you are the second or the third person to reserve the same room, then you need to quote the share code that the first person was given in the appropriate field on top of the accommodation options. Please note that after you input the share code, the valid check-in and check-out dates will be automatically filled.

5.5 Q: I want to share my room but I haven’t found a person to share with. What can I do?

A: Please note that we do not arrange shared rooms. However, you can let us know of your interest and if another participant has a similar request we will be happy to get you in touch.

5.6 Q: What if the accommodation offered through Easy Conferences system is fully booked?

5.8 Q: In case that I would like to extend my stay before or after the conference, could I make the arrangements through Easy Conferences system?

6. AIRPORT TRANSFERS

6.1 Q: Where do I pick up the taxi I have booked from?

A: Kindly note that the taxi driver will be waiting for you after Custom Formalities at the airport with a sign writing the name of the conference. The driver will assist you with your luggage and lead you to your taxi.P.S.: No surcharge will be levied on you in case of additional luggage, or for the late arrival of your flight.

A: The taxi transfer can be booked for up to three people sharing in order to save on cost. You just need to indicate the number of persons and names in “Additional Notes” section during the registration process. Only one person needs to pay. In case that our office makes the arrangements to share your taxi transfer with another participant who already booked a taxi at the same time, then we will reimburse 30% of the amount directly to your credit card account, after the financial closure of the conference.

A: If you have provided your arrival flight number at the first step of the registration process, then the taxi driver will be able to know anytime if your flight gets delayed and at the same time you do not need to worry about your taxi. So, it is very important for us to provide us with your exact flight details, especially if you have booked a taxi from the airport through our system.

6.4 Q: On arrival is it possible for the taxi to take me to a different place than my accommodation hotel?

A: The prices that appear in our system apply only for routes from the Airport to your accommodation hotel. Your accommodation hotel should be one of the hotels in our system. However, if you would like a different drop off point, you can contact us atinfo@easyconferences.org and we will advice accordingly if that is possible at the same cost.

6.5 Q: Where can I find my pick up time back to the airport?

A: Regarding your departure, you will be able to find out your pick-up time and place back to the airport posted on the Announcements Notice board next to the onsite Conference Registration Desk.

6.6 Q: Is there public transportation from the airport to the venue?

A: Please find below the official websites for the airport services per city, where you can find the relevant routes and timetables:

From Larnaca Airport

To Larnaca City: You can use Larnaca public buses ‘Zinonas’ (www.zinonasbuses.com) to find a route from the Airport to the city.

To Nicosia City: There is a direct service to reach Nicosia city, handled by Kapnos Airport Shuttle. Please visit www.kapnosairportshuttle.com for more details, the latest information and time schedule. Afterwards, you can use Nicosia public buses ‘OSEL’ (www.osel.com.cy) to find a route to your accommodation hotel.

To Limassol City: You may take the direct service handled by Limassol Airport Express coaches. Please visit www.limassolairportexpress.eu for more details, the latest information and time schedule. Afterwards, you can use Limassol public buses ‘EMEL’ (www.limassolbuses.com) to find a route to your accommodation hotel.

To Paphos City: First you need use Limassol Airport Express coaches in order to get to Limassol. Please visit limassolairportexpress.eu for more details, the latest information and time schedule. You arrive at Agios Georgios Havouzas Church in Limassol. From Agios Georgios Havouzas, if require you change bus. You can ask the driver if you need to change bus for Paphos. Afterwards, you can use Paphos public buses ‘OSYPA’ (www.pafosbuses.com) to find a route to your accommodation hotel.

From Paphos Airport

To Paphos City: You can use Paphos public buses ‘OSYPA’ (www.pafosbuses.com) to find a route from the Airport to your accommodation hotel.

To Nicosia City: There is a direct service to reach Nicosia city, handled by Kapnos Airport Shuttle. Please visit www.kapnosairportshuttle.com for more details, the latest information and time schedule. Afterwards, you can use Nicosia public buses ‘OSEL’ (www.osel.com.cy) to find a route to your accommodation hotel.

To Limassol City: You may take the direct service handled by Limassol Airport Express coaches. Please visit www.limassolairportexpress.eu for more details, the latest information and time schedule. Afterwards, you can use Limassol public buses ‘EMEL’ (www.limassolbuses.com) to find a route to your accommodation hotel.

To Larnaca City: There is a direct service to reach Larnaca city, handled by Kapnos Airport Shuttle. Please visit www.kapnosairportshuttle.com for more details, the latest information and time schedule. Afterwards, you can use Larnaca public buses ‘Zinonas’ (www.zinonasbuses.com) to find a route to your accommodation hotel.

7. CAR RENTALS

7.1 Q: How easy is it to drive to the conference venue from the airport?

A: Driving in Cyprus is on the left side of the road and might be slightly difficult for some people who are used to drive on the right side of the road. However, distances are relatively short and there is an extensive network of highways on the island; thus driving from either airport to any venue should be fairly easy.

7.2 Q: Where do I pick up the car I have rented from?

A: On arrival please proceed to the booth of ‘Astra Car Rental’ company and the staff there (present 24/7) will be able to assist you. You do not need a voucher; simply mention your name and provide them with your driving license.The booth of ‘Astra Car Rental’ Company is located at:
i) Larnaca Airport: after the exit Custom Formalities, opposite you, slightly to the left.
ii) Pafos Airport: opposite you as soon as you exit Custom Formalities.

7.3 Q: I want to pick up/return the rental car at a different location than the airport. What procedure do I follow?

A: In case you need to pick up/drop off the rental car from/to a different location other than the arrival/departure airport, please insert the location details and time at the “Notes” section during the registration process. Our team will then email you accordingly.

7.4 Q: Which side of the road should I drive on in Cyprus?

A: In Cyprus you must always remember to drive on the LEFT hand side of the road. Pedestrians must also remember that traffic moves on the left side of the road and therefore always walk on the right hand side of the road (i.e. towards the oncoming traffic). In case of an accident, call 112 immediately.

7.5 Q: Can I hire a car through EasyConferences system and be able to drive in the occupied areas of Cyprus?

A: If you plan to rent a car with us, please note that the car company we cooperate with allows for the car to pass the UN border. However, the company takes no responsibility in case of loss/damage/vandalism etc, i.e. there is no car insurance coverage beyond the borders. You will have to arrange for insurance at the UN check-point.

7.6 Q: What is Optional CDW Insurance?

A: CDW is an additional type of insurance which stands for “Collision Damage Waiver” and means that the insurance company covers the excess amount of the damage in case of an accident. Please note that CDW does not cover loss of the vehicle and its parts and/or accessories caused by theft, attempted theft or vandalism. CDW does not cover tires, windscreen and oil sump.

7.7 Q: What does each supplement category stand for?

A:Auto Supplement: The rental car is equipped with an automatic gearbox – not manual (Applicable only for the indicated car categories).Hard Top Supplement: When a client requires a hard shell car roof on the rental car (Applicable only for the indicated car categories).One Day Supplement: This is the obligatory fee in case that the car is rented out for a period of only 24 hours.

8. PAYMENT OPTIONS

8.1 Q: Do I need to pay just after I register?

A: No you do not. Once you have selected your registration options, you will be presented with your payment options and you may select the one relevant to your case. However, it is not necessary to pay immediately, since you can go back to your EasyConferences account at a later time to settle your payment.

8.2 Q: Can I make part payments at different times?

A: Yes, the system permits as many payments as you wish and you may complete them at different times using different methods of payment. For instance, you may initially pay only the registration fees and then go back to your EasyConferences account at a later time to pay for the accommodation and after that pay for the airport transfers.

8.3 Q: Can I pay the whole pending amount onsite?

A: No. Full prepayment is required for your accommodation, taxi transfers and car hire. The registration fees can be paid cash or with credit card during the onsite registration. However, please note that in an effort to minimize bureaucracy during the onsite registration, we strongly encourage participants to settle all pending matters prior to their arrival to Cyprus.

8.4 Q: Is it possible to pay both by credit or debit card?

A: Please note that both credit or debit card can be used for your payment; either online through our registration system or onsite at the Registration Desk.

8.5 Q: My University/lab/Organization is paying for my registration to the Conference. What payment method should I choose?

A: If the payment for the registration is made by a third-party please select the option “Other” in your payment method. In the section “Notes” during the registration process, please specify who will be paying for your registration and what payment method will be used. Once the payment is processed from your bank, it is very important to clearly indicate on the payment slip the conference you registered for and your full name. This is so we can track the payment back to you and finalize your registration.

8.6 Q: I entered my credit card details in full at the payment section but the transaction is not rendered successful. Why do I get the message: “authorization failed”?

A: The problem you identified might be caused by your browser or because of security restrictions posed by your credit card authorization bank. Please rest assured that your credit card has not been charged. Please contact us at info@easyconferences.org in order to provide you with alternative methods of payment.

8.7 Q: When selecting the credit card as method of payment, I am being asked for the CCV2. What is CCV2?

A: CCV2 stands for Credit Card Verification which is a security feature for credit or debit card transactions, providing increased protection against credit card fraud. CVV2 are the last three digits of the security code at the back of your credit card (under the magnetic stripe) which you should state in order for the transaction to be successful and secure.

8.8 Q: I have selected bank transfer for a payment method. Why do I still get “Awaiting Payment Reminders” in my Mailbox?

A: Kindly note that “Awaiting Payment Reminders” are sent automatically by the system periodically to all participants with outstanding amounts. Even if you have selected payment by bank and you have proceeded with the transaction, you will keep receiving these messages until the money reaches us. Please note that you need to allow 2 to 5 working days for your bank transfer to reach our account. As soon as we receive your payment, you will receive an instant confirmation email.

8.9 Q: What happens if my bank transfer has not arrived until the beginning of the conference?

A: Please note that we need to receive the full payment to our beneficiary account prior to your arrival. Otherwise, you will need to pay again the registration fees and all other services that you may have booked through our system, and we will reimburse you when we receive the bank transfer.

8.10 Q: Can I pay for certain services by credit card and others by bank transfer?

A: In case that certain expenses will be paid by two different financial sources, i.e.: certain expenses by you through your credit card, and other expenses to be covered by your institution/ university through bank transfer; please proceed as follows:

a) Kindly go to EasyConferences to select only the services you will be paying through your credit card. Then, select payment method “Credit Card” and proceed with payment.
b) Once the payment is effectuated, you need to go back to your EasyConferences account to select the remaining services in your order. Before selecting payment method “Bank transfer” or “Other”, please post a note in the “Notes” section: “payable by my institution”, so that we know we should be expecting the bank transfer from your institution.

8.11 Q: Can I get two separate invoices?

A: Yes, it is possible to receive two or more separate invoices representing payment of different services of your order; both invoices will equal to the total payment paid. Kindly proceed with completing your registration and your payment while indicating in the “Notes” section that you would like to receive two separate invoices. You also need to specify how you wish the split of the services of your registration order.
You will then be able to collect the separate invoices during the onsite registration.

8.12 Q: Why haven’t I received any confirmation in my Mailbox for the payment of my registration order?

A: Please check your Junk Mail folder or Spam folder as the instant confirmation email might has reached one of these folders instead of your Inbox. If you still cannot view the confirmation to any of these folders, please contact us at: support@easyconferences.org.

9. GENERAL ENQUIRIES

9.1 Q: I have sent an enquiry to EasyConferences mail. Why have I not received a reply yet?

A: Check your Junk mail or Spam mail folder for a reply from us as the email may have automatically been placed in one of these folders. If you still have no email from us, please contact us again. Our aim is to reply to any requests posted on the “Notes” step or to your emails within 24 hours.

About

The 5th International Conference on Web Intelligence, Mining and Semantics (WIMS'15) is organised under the auspices of University of Cyprus.

This is the fifth in a new series of conferences concerned with intelligent approaches to transform the World Wide Web into a global reasoning and semantics-driven computing machine. The next conference in this series, WIMS'16 will take place in (TBA).